A scatter symbol is a special symbol in slot games that can trigger bonus features or payouts, regardless of where it lands on the reels. Unlike other symbols that need to appear on specific paylines, scatter symbols work independently. Most modern slot games feature scatter symbols to enhance player engagement and increase the chances of winning.
How Does a Scatter Symbol Work?
When you spin the reels, landing a certain number of scatter symbols, usually three or more, can trigger a bonus round or free spins. The best part? These symbols don’t need to line up from left to right or appear in sequence. Just hitting the minimum number required is enough. In many cases, scatter symbols also come with their own payout values, meaning you can win just by spotting them. This is why scatter symbols in online slots are considered game-changers.
Benefits of a Scatter Symbol
Scatter symbols bring a range of benefits to the player’s gaming experience. They’re not just flashy graphics; they serve real functions, and here are some of them:
Unlock Bonus Rounds
One of the biggest perks of scatter symbols in slot games is their ability to launch bonus rounds. These rounds often include mini-games or unique features that can multiply your winnings significantly.
Trigger Free Spins
Scatter symbols frequently offer free spins as rewards. This feature means you get extra chances to win without spending additional credits. Basically, it’s a shot at profits with zero risk.
Higher Payout Opportunities
In some scatter symbol slots, landing a few scatters can result in a direct cash payout. It adds another layer of potential returns without relying solely on paylines or combinations.
How to Find a Scatter Symbol in Slot Games
Most online slot games clearly label or design scatter symbols so they’re easy to spot. They often stand out with unique artwork, animations, or text that reads “Scatter.” Before you start spinning, check the paytable of the game. This section will show the scatter symbol, how many you need to trigger bonuses, and what features it unlocks. On many scatter symbols in online casino games, you’ll also find helpful icons or previews during the game to keep track of how many you’ve landed.
Scatter Symbol Examples Across Different Slot Games
Scatter symbols show up in all kinds of themes and formats. Here are some examples of popular online slot games available on Bspin.io:
- Big Bass Bonanza: The scatter in this fishing-themed favorite is the carp fished out of the water. It’s not easy to spot this since the word “Scatter” is written below the symbol. Hit at least three to activate the free spins round, where you’ll also meet the fisherman wild for even greater payouts.
- Gates of Olympus: Zeus acts as the scatter symbol, triggering multipliers and cascading wins when he appears across the reels. If you want to level up your game, try the series of this ancient Greek mythology-themed slot called Gates of Olympus 1000.
- Legacy of Dead: The tomb symbol is the most powerful among all other symbols in this ancient Egypt-inspired slot. Aside from acting as a scatter, it also acts as a wild. Hitting three or more of these symbols unlocks free spins with expanding symbols that boost your winning chances.
- Starlight Princess: The princess is the scatter symbol in this Japanese anime-style slot. Land four or more of the scatter symbols on the reels, and you’ll trigger the Free Spins round. Enjoy 15 extra spins and a 300 times multiplier when you land four scatters on the reels. Five scatter symbols give a 5,000 times multiplier.
- Sugar Rush: In this candy-themed slot, the scatter symbol appears as a rocket ship packed with candies and labeled “Scatter” at the bottom. Landing three or more of this special symbol triggers the free spins round, where multipliers stack up for big wins.
How to Maximize Wins with a Scatter Symbol
Scatter symbols can deliver impressive rewards, but only if you know how to take advantage of them. Here are some simple strategies to help you make the most of this special symbol.
Read the Paytable
Every slot game has different rules for scatter symbols. Before you start spinning, take a moment to check the game’s paytable. Doing so lets you know how many scatters you need and what features they unlock.
Choose High Scatter Potential Slots
Look for games where the scatter symbol appears frequently or triggers high-value bonuses. Some slots offer re-triggerable free spins or multipliers alongside scatters, making them even more valuable.
Bet Wisely
You don’t always need to place a large bet to trigger scatter features, but betting too low might limit your returns. Find a balanced wager that fits your budget while maximizing the impact of the scatter symbol when it lands.
Scatter Symbol vs. Other Special Symbols
While the scatter symbol is one of the most powerful symbols in a slot game, it’s not the only one. Wild symbols, for example, substitute for other symbols to help form winning combinations. Bonus symbols may trigger special mini-games, but they often need to land in specific spots. What sets scatter symbols apart is their independence since they don’t have to follow the rules of paylines or positioning.
Scatter symbols are the true stars of many online slot games, and their ability to activate features without sticking to paylines makes them especially special. Next time you play, keep an eye out for those scatter symbols. They could turn an ordinary spin into your next big win.